MG Magnette ZB Varitone 1956-58 Specifications

Engine
Cylinders: 4 in line
Bore: 73mm
Stroke: 88.9mm
Displacement: 1,489cc
Valves: Pushrod/overhead
Compression ratio: 8.3 to 1
Carburettors: Twin SU HS4
Power output: 68 bhp at 5400rpm

Performance
Maximum speed: 87mph
Acceleration: 0-60mph 18.5secs
Approx fuel consumption: 25mpg

Transmission
Clutch: 8 in Borg and Beck,
single dry-plate diaphragm
Gearbox: 4-speed, synchromesh on
2nd, 3rd and top gears
Ratios: Top 1.0, 3rd 1.374, 2nd 2.214,
1st 3.64, reverse 4.76
Propellar Shaft: Hardy Spicer open shaft, needle bearing u/j at each end
Final Drive: live axle, hypoid bevel gears

Body/Chassis
Unitary construction, 4 door saloon

Brakes
Lockheed 10in x 1.75in drum

Steering
Cam gears rack and pinion,
3 turns lock to lock

Suspension
Front: Independent, coil spring, wishbone Suspension
Rear: Semi elliptic, leaf spring

Wheels
4.5J x 15in bolt on
ventilated discs

Dimensions & Weight
Wheelbase: 8ft 6in
Track - front: 4ft 3in
Track - rear: 4ft 3in
Overall length: 14ft 1in
Overall width: 5ft 3in
Height: 4 ft 10in
Ground clearance: 5.5in
Turning circle: 32ft
Kerb weight: 2,464 lb

1950s Magnette Production
ZA(1953-1956): 12,754
ZB(1956-1959): 23,846
Designer: Gerald Palmer